Robin, the newest to join our family, spent the last 10 years at home raising and at times, homeschooling, her two kids, Cerys and Rhys. Robin brings a refreshing energy to the team and often takes lead in team bonding activities to further build on an already tight knit group. Her previous work in the non-profit world, as well as many volunteer positions, has helped hone her talent for planning new and exclusive events and working with multi-generational families. Robin loves what Richmond has to offer, the culinary delights, and new venues, which allow her to plan unique opportunities for client events.
Having grown up in the small town of Gordonsville, she is still drawn to the country life and hopes to one day have enough land to keep goats (she really, really loves goats). Until then, Robin, her husband Mark, and their 2 kids, enjoy escaping to the mountains or the beach in their camper.
What do you enjoy most about being a team member of Ray Olson, LLCI love how everyone has their own strengths and talents. This team is so welcoming and supportive as I have been learning the ropes. Everyone brings something different. We also have great clients. The relationships created are so different from most corporations of today. Ray has a big heart, and you can see his desire to help others in everything he does.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? It’s ok to not be ok. I think we get wrapped up in trying to be ok so we don’t offend others, or make them uncomfortable. But there are times when we aren’t ok, and that is perfectly ok. Sometimes you don’t need to be fixed, you just want someone to sit with you in your brokenness until you are ready to move forward in whichever way you choose.
When you are not at the office, you can often be found doing what? At the moment we are in the busy season with our kids. They participate in many activities but still need to be driven around, soccer, pole vaulting, and scouts to name a few. However, when I get a free moment, I enjoy spending time with my friends, trying out new restaurants, participating in a bible study, or just going for a walk. I love adventures, from backpacking in the Appalachian Mountains to renting an RV for the weekend and going to the lake. During the colder months, I prefer going to the movies with the family or sitting on the couch crocheting by the fire.
What is your most treasured memory? When I was in high school, my mom and her sister took us out of school for the week of Thanksgiving to go to Disney World. We didn’t have much, so this was a splurge for our mom. It was also the last vacation we went on as a family before my sister went off to college. My mom hated roller coasters but for some reason went on Space Mountain with us. She sat behind me and held the back of my head the whole time to keep it from getting shaken around too much. We had lots of laughs on that trip, and everything just felt magical.
What is your favorite quote and why?
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
—Isaiah 40:31 King James Bible.
In my youth I attended a church camp in the mountains, and there was a camp song based on this verse. It always reminded me that I’m not alone, and I don’t have to try and do everything myself. When I’m at my weakest, I can give it all to Him and He will carry me. I also like the idea of flying with wings of an Eagle.
For what in life do you feel most grateful? My husband. I should explain first that he is an introvert and realist, and I’m an extrovert and dreamer. He goes along with most of my shenanigans and isn’t afraid of whatever next big adventure that I plan for us. He keeps me grounded but encourages me in my hobbies and interests. He works hard so we can have a good life. The kids and I wouldn’t be the best versions of ourselves without his patience and leadership.
What is your favorite place in the world and why? The beach. I love listening to the ocean, smelling the salty sea air, and feeling the sun on your skin. Being outside is key for me. Things just feel calmer when you are in nature.
What professional achievement are you most proud of and why? I know being a mother isn’t a profession, but I do feel very proud to raise two stubborn, smart, and independent children. But I also loved when I worked at Benedictine during their 100-year celebration. We held a birthday party at the school, full of military artillery, music, and educational displays. I learned so much about our graduates who came back to participate. I loved hearing their stories of going off to war right after high school. It really humbled me listening to what they had to go through at such a young age. We even had old news articles celebrating some of their achievements. Everyone seemed to have a great time.
If you could spend the day with anyone, who would it be and what would you like to learn? My mom died suddenly in 2019. She was typically a quiet person, and I had always done all of the talking when we were together. After spending time with her after a surgery she had, I asked her questions about herself and tried to listen more. I didn’t realize I only had a few more days with her at that point. If I could spend more time with her, I’d just sit and listen. I’d want to know what life was like for her growing up, raising us kids on her own, and her favorite memories.